While notebook aesthetics today have definitely improved over the drab and dreary machines of yesteryear, users are still confined to a single look once they purchase their device, with little customisation options available.

Dell is aiming to change this with its new Inspiron range, giving owners the ability to mix and match their notebook's outer appearance based on their day to day preferences. The new notebooks feature the Switch lids, created by Design Studio, which should retail starting at R299. These interchangeable lids are available in a wide range of colours, from blue to red to pink polka dots, and are sure to be a hit with colour starved tech junkies.

What's inside

The Inspiron R is available with a 15" display with a native resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels, and sports second generation Intel Sandy Bridge processors. A Core i7-2630M CPU @ 2.0 GHz resides in the top model, but other options are offered.

RAM options are available ranging up to 8 GB of DDR3 memory, while a SATA HDD up to 640 GB can also be added. As far as graphics are concerned, an Intel HD 3000 option is available for smaller tasks, while an Nvidia GeForce GT 525M will take care of some gaming needs.

Users also have access to DVD or Blu-ray drive combos for the device, while a 1.0 MP webcam will ensure crystal clear video communication with friends and family. As far as ports are concerned the Inspiron looks impressive, featuring two USB 3.0 ports, one USB 2.0 and a USB 2.0 with E-SATA and Power Share capabilities.

Additionally an HDMI port is available for viewing HD content on an attached display, and thanks to Intel WiDi technology users can wirelessly stream movies to certain TVs as well. Last but not least, the notebook includes built-in 802.11n Wi-Fi for painlessly connecting to wireless networks. The Inspiron 15R starts at a recommended retail price of R9999, available at Incredible Connection.